Tubing Management Band

ABSTRACT

An embodiment provides an adjustable band with non-occlusive retention in case of excessive force (i.e., automatically loosens) and traction for the broad use of tubing management in medical device and patient contact applications. Embodiments may further include features such as guides and or channels on the band to hold tubing. Embodiments may be secured to patients to be used as a non-adhesive securement aid for tubing/catheter (e.g., IV&#39;s, enteral tubes, Foley catheters, endotracheal tubes, nasogastric (NG) tubes, chest tubes, and the like) retention on patients.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/962,530 filed on Jan. 17, 2020 and entitled “Tubing Management Band”, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

In many medical care facilities patients may have numerous therapeutic connections (e.g., cords, cables, and tubes) that can easily become disorganized and tangled, leading to contamination of the connections, confusion for medical care providers, a physical hazard that increases the risk for falls for both medical care providers and patients, and the possibility of damage to medical devices.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the appended claims, the following detailed description of one or more example embodiments, and the corresponding figures. Where considered appropriate, reference labels have been repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

FIG. 1A includes a partial cross-sectional view of a band clinched into a loop. FIG. 1B includes a perspective view of a band clinched into a loop.

FIG. 2 includes an embodiment of a band that includes an additional band.

FIG. 3 includes an embodiment of a band that includes an additional band.

FIG. 4 includes an embodiment of a band.

FIG. 5 includes an embodiment of a band.

FIG. 6A includes a top view of an embodiment of a band. FIG. 6B includes a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6C includes a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7 includes an embodiment of a band's protuberance.

FIG. 8 includes an embodiment of a band.

FIG. 9 includes embodiments of a band being used to secure an intravenous (IV) tube to a patient.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made to the drawings wherein like structures may be provided with like suffix reference designations. In order to show the structures of various embodiments more clearly, the drawings included herein are diagrammatic representations of structures. Thus, the actual appearance of the fabricated structures, for example in a photo, may appear different while still incorporating the claimed structures of the illustrated embodiments. Moreover, the drawings may only show the structures useful to understand the illustrated embodiments. Additional structures known in the art may not have been included to maintain the clarity of the drawings. “An embodiment”, “various embodiments” and the like indicate embodiment(s) so described may include particular features, structures, or characteristics, but not every embodiment necessarily includes the particular features, structures, or characteristics. Some embodiments may have some, all, or none of the features described for other embodiments. “First”, “second”, “third” and the like describe a common object and indicate different instances of like objects are being referred to. Such adjectives do not imply objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner. “Connected” may indicate elements are in direct physical contact with each other and “coupled” may indicate elements co-operate or interact with each other, but they may or may not be in direct physical contact. Phrases such as “comprising at least one of A and B” include situations with A, B, or A and B.

An embodiment is a reusable band to be used to aid in the management or securement of tubing lines or electrical cords that become tangled or get in the way of a practicing clinician or nurse. The tubing management band is a soft, flexible strap with a slot for one end to be fed through. The band has teeth along the outer edge (e.g., one or two outer edges depending on the embodiment) that are used to grip the edges of the slot and prevent the band from coming undone. It is adjustable, and has retention that is non-occlusive to tubing.

In various places in a hospital, clinicians require the ability to deliver fluids to a patient through a multitude of tubing lines, or need to use multiple pieces of equipment each with their own cables. As mentioned above, these lines are prone to both tangling and getting snagged on protrusions or tripped over when a patient is moving. To combat this problem, an embodiment of the tubing management band can be used to group a bundle of lines or cables together or to hold them against an IV pole. This can reduce the overall length of the line so that it is no longer a trip hazard, or keep it secure in a single place for better clinician access.

Another issue that can arise when delivering fluid to a patient is that a specific line (e.g., therapeutic cable, tube, cord) can be needed and not be readily identified. By securing a line to an IV pole (or bed rail and the like) or wrapping a band around it, it is possible for the clinician to easily and quickly identify the line that they require. An embodiment of the band also does not slide down an IV pole after being tightened so it will remain in place.

An embodiment solves the problem of using tape (or similar solutions) in a hospital environment. The residue that is left behind by tape after it is removed is difficult to clean and can harbor microorganisms that increase infection risk. Since an embodiment of the band has no adhesive, this problem is eradicated or lessened.

In an embodiment, the teeth along the edge of the band in combination with the width of the slot on the band allow for the band to be tightened and remain secure afterwards. The material used to create the band prevents it from sliding down an IV pole when it is tightened.

An embodiment of the band is made from a soft, flexible material to allow for proper functionality (removed more easily and can be stretched for better function).

Various embodiments are used to aid in fluid tubing management, electrical cable management, and the like.

Other alternatives may have teeth and/or slot or slots shaped differently from those embodiments shown in the Figures. Further, the band itself may have a different length, width, and the like from embodiments shown in the Figures.

Embodiments may be used commercially as a replacement to tape, loop and hook fasteners, and the like that are currently used to secure things together in a hospital setting.

An embodiment has no adhesive and leaves no residue when removed. Further, an embodiment may be a monolithic thermoplastic elastomer that is relatively inexpensive and which is easily constructed in high volume with strong reliability.

An embodiment includes a tubing management band that can be used for various things in the hospital including tubing management, securing devices to poles/beds, wrapping electrical cords, and other organizational needs. An embodiment includes a single monolithic piece thermoplastic polymer elastomer (TPE), silicone, and the like that loops around tubing or other objects and threads through the loop on one end to secure it.

An embodiment provides an adjustable band with non-occlusive retention in case of excessive force (i.e., automatically loosens) and traction for the broad use of tubing management in medical device and patient contact applications. Embodiments may further include features such as guides and or channels on the band to hold tubing.

Embodiments may be secured to patients to be used as a non-adhesive securement aid for tubing/catheter (e.g., IV's, enteral tubes, Foley catheters, endotracheal tubes, nasogastric (NG) tubes, chest tubes, and the like) retention on patients. An embodiment may enable organization of tubing orientation for patient comfort. An embodiment includes a rigid plastic connector and/or housing on the band to interface with a catheter surface to achieve coupling of the catheter to the band. An embodiment may couple the connector (rigid or nonrigid) to the band via adhesives.

An embodiment includes a flat sawtooth design that allows the device to remove excess tension to prevent tubing occlusion. An embodiment contains a special patch that can be used to label the device that can't easily be removed with an alcohol wipe. An embodiment of a band with a smooth surface may allow ink to be easily removed with an alcohol wipe. However, an embodiment of a band with a rough surface may “hide” ink to some extent making removal of all ink with the wipe more difficult.

An embodiment achieves a balance of adequate securement without overtightening which can occlude plastic tubing used is medical devices (which possess a significant risk). However, the size and profile of protuberances in an embodiment achieves this balance. Ease of disengagement of the band during removal (while providing adequate retention) provides for an efficient band. Further, the elastomeric material of the band stretches providing relief to overtightening without loss of circular support integrity. Also, embodiments may be for single patient use or multiuse. Regardless, should a band be contaminated by body or medical fluids, the ability to clean the device is easier without nooks and crannies and otherwise due to simple structures addressed herein.

An embodiment includes protuberances that are not too extremely angled to prevent too strong of a securement which could occlude tubing that the band is securing. Such protuberances also allow for easy adjustability. An embodiment allows the band to be adjusted easily and to not be overtightened and provide some give when the user tries to do so.

Further, a band made with an elastomeric material (of a certain durometer such as Shore A 40) also helps reduce the risk of overtightening and potential occlusions.

An embodiment includes a material with a certain pore size, density or aversion to microbial growth. Pore size and density can be controlled with material selection and changing the pressure at which, for example, injection molding is performed. Further, antimicrobial agents may be added to the material to limit microbial growth.

An embodiment allows for automatic loosening (so as not to overly cinch tubing that may be providing medication to a patient) based on the combination of the material properties (e.g., hardness as measured on Shore durometer scale), shape of the teeth (e.g., shark fin shapes that provide greater resistance to loosening than tightening but still allow for loosening once a force threshold is met), and/or overlap between teeth engaged with the slot and the slot sidewalls (provide greater resistance to loosening than tightening but still allow for loosening once a force threshold is met). Some dimensions are critical in achieving the above performance of greater resistance to loosening than tightening but still allow for loosening once a force threshold is met. In embodiments the dimensions themselves may not be critical so much as the relationship among dimensions (e.g., ratio of overlap between an engaged tooth and a slot sidewall) and the combination of qualities (e.g., hardness of band material in combination with the above-mentioned ratio of overlap between an engaged tooth and a slot sidewall).

Regarding the above criticality, for instance, Applicant determined if the material is too stiff, the teeth will hold too tightly and the band will not loosen itself correctly. If the material is too soft the opposite will occur and the band will loosen too easily. Additionally, because of the material, the slot at the back has the ability to stretch/deflect which aids in relieving tension if a user tries to over tighten the band. The material is not a skin irritant and will not degrade if wiped with an alcohol swab. Materials may include a thermoplastic with a Shore 40A durometer rating. However, other embodiments may use a silicone rubber material.

The shape of the teeth is another critical design feature for function in some embodiments. In at least some embodiments they extend perpendicular (+/−10 degrees) (or at least a portion of the tooth) to the length of band and extend at a length so that the overhang (between tooth and slot sidewall) allows the band to be secured and not immediately come apart. If the teeth extend at particular angles (e.g., angled barbs that slope proximally so that tightening is easy but loosening is difficult) the band holds too tightly. If the overhang of the teeth is more or less, the function would also be impaired.

Thus, embodiments are different from the many, many iterations of zip-ties that would be ineffective for intended uses for embodiments described herein (e.g., a band that is snug enough to hold things but then loosens at a threshold so tubes are not occluded). An embodiment provides the following dimensions for a band 100 (e.g., FIG. 4): (a) Dimensions of hole—0.100″ wide (401), 0.65″ long (402), (b) Dimensions of teeth—0.095″ protrusion from body (403), (c) Dimensions of body to which teeth are formed—0.60″ width of body w/o teeth (405), 6.53″ overall length (406), 0.08″ thickness (404), (d) Material from which band is made—soft flexible plastic such as TPE or a silicone rubber, (e) Dimension between hole and adjacent edge—Overhang (407) of 0.06″ from inside of hole to edge of teeth, (f) Width of material around the hole—0.18″ (408).

The following examples pertain to further embodiments.

Example 1: A tubing management band comprising: an overall length defined along a long axis of the band; a proximal third, a distal third, and a middle third between the proximal and distal thirds. The band includes a substantially flat first face opposite a substantially flat second face. The band includes a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first side wall coupling the first and second flat faces to each other and the second side wall also coupling the first and second flat faces to each other. The band includes a distal portion of the first sidewall, the distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall, the distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances. The band includes a proximal portion of the first sidewall, the proximal portion of the first sidewall including no protuberances, and a proximal portion of the second sidewall, the proximal portion of the second sidewall including no protuberances. The band includes a tip of the first protuberance that extends a first distance, orthogonal to the long axis, from the long axis. The proximal portion of the first sidewall extends a second distance, orthogonal the long axis, from the long axis and the first distance is greater than the second distance. The band includes a slot included in the proximal third of the band and including a first width that is orthogonal to the long axis. The band includes a second width extending orthogonal to the long axis and from the tip of the first protuberance to a tip of the fourth protuberance, wherein the second width is wider than the first width by 0.12 inches. The band includes a third width colinear with the first width and extending from the first side wall to the second sidewall, wherein the third width is wider than the second width by 0.36 inches. The band includes a resilient material. The first protuberance includes a leading edge that slopes away from the long axis as the leading edge extends proximally. The first protuberance includes a trailing edge that meets the first sidewall via an arcuate edge and slopes away from the long axis as the trailing edge extends distally. The leading edge is longer than the trailing edge; (d) the leading edge has a first angle of incidence with the first sidewall, the trailing edge has a second angle of incidence with the first sidewall, and the first angle of incidence is less than the second angle of incidence. The proximal third extends along the long axis and is proximal to the slot by 0.18 inches (463). The slot has a width (401) taken along the long (long) axis of 0.1 inches. The slot has a length (402) (sometimes referred to as a width) taken orthogonal to the long axis of 0.65 inches. The first protuberance extends orthogonal to the long axis and away from the first sidewall by 0.095 inches (407). The band is monolithic and formed from a single structure with no fusions, welds, or adhesions between different sub-portions of the first band.

For example, see first width 402, second width 418, third width 419. For example, the first distance 461 is greater than second distance 462 with regard to axis 411. For example, see leading edge 451, trailing edge 452, arcuate edge 453, first angle of incidence 454, second angle of incidence 455. In an embodiment, the angle 455 may be 90 degrees. However, in other embodiments the angle may be greater than 90 degrees (more open, such as FIG. 8) to make automatic loosening (to avoid cinching a banded tube) easier.

Other embodiments may provide at least one of: (a) the second width is wider than the first width by 0.08, 0.09, 0.11, 0.13, 0.14, 0.15 inches; (b) the third width is wider than the second width by 0.30, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33, 0.34, 0.35, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.40 inches; (c) the proximal third extends along the long axis and proximal to the slot by 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.19, 0.20, 0.21, 0.22, 0.23 inches; (d) the slot has a width taken along the long axis of 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.10, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, 0.14 inches; (e) the slot has a length taken orthogonal to the long axis of 0.60, 0.61, 0.62, 0.63, 0.64, 0.66, 0.67, 0.68, 0.69, 0.70 inches; (f) the first protuberance extends orthogonal to the long axis and away from the first sidewall by 0.090, 0.091, 0.092, 0.093, 0.094, 0.096, 0.097, 0.098, 0.099, 0.100 inches, (g) or combinations thereof.

These measurements are applicable to various embodiments, including those of FIGS. 4 and 8. The following dimensions may be critical in some embodiments (along with a material hardness between Shore A 30 and Shore A 50) to ensure the band “gives” when under a threshold level of expansive force (e.g., when securing an IV to a patient's arm): (a) the second width is wider than the first width by at least 0.08 inches but no more than 0.15 inches; (b) the third width is wider than the second width by at least 0.30 inches but no more than 0.40 inches;

Example 2. The band according to any of examples 1 or 13 comprising an additional band, the additional band comprising: an additional overall length defined along the long axis of the band; an additional proximal third, an additional distal third, and an additional middle third between the additional proximal and distal thirds; a substantially flat additional first face opposite a substantially flat additional second face. The additional band includes an additional first side wall opposite an additional second side wall, the additional first side wall coupling the additional first and second flat faces to each other and the additional second side wall also coupling the additional first and second flat faces to each other. The additional band includes a distal portion of the additional first sidewall, the distal portion of the additional first sidewall including additional first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the additional second sidewall, the distal portion of the additional second sidewall including additional fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances. The additional band includes a proximal portion of the additional first sidewall, the proximal portion of the additional first sidewall including no protuberances, and a proximal portion of the additional second sidewall, the proximal portion of the additional second sidewall including no protuberances. The additional band includes a tip of the additional first protuberance that extends an additional first distance, orthogonal to the long axis, from the long axis; wherein the proximal portion of the additional first sidewall extends an additional second distance, orthogonal the long axis, from the long axis and the additional first distance is greater than the additional second distance. The additional band includes an additional slot included in the proximal third of the additional band and including an additional first width that is orthogonal to the long axis. The additional band includes an additional second width extending orthogonal to the long axis and from the tip of the additional first protuberance to a tip of the additional fourth protuberance, wherein the additional second width is wider than the additional first width. The additional band includes an additional third width colinear with the additional first width and extending from the additional first side wall to the additional second sidewall, wherein the additional third width is wider than the additional second width. The additional band includes the resilient material. The additional first protuberance includes an additional leading edge that slopes away from the long axis as the additional leading edge extends proximally. The additional first protuberance includes an additional trailing edge that meets the additional first sidewall via an additional arcuate edge and slopes away from the long axis as the additional trailing edge extends distally. The additional leading edge is longer than the additional trailing edge. The additional leading edge has an additional first angle of incidence with the additional first sidewall, the additional trailing edge has an additional second angle of incidence with the additional first sidewall, and the additional first angle of incidence is less than the additional second angle of incidence. The additional band is monolithic with the band.

For example, see FIGS. 2, 3, 4.

Example 3. The band of example 2, wherein the third protuberance is proximal to the additional slot when the first face is substantially included in a plane.

For such an orientation (i.e., “when the first face is substantially included in a plane”), see FIG. 6C.

Example 4. A method comprising forming a loop by sliding the first protuberance of the band according to any of examples 1 or 13 through the slot to affix the band to an object located within the loop.

See, e.g., FIG. 9.

Example 5. The method of example 4 wherein the object includes a portion of a patient's body.

So, while some embodiments include a method for affixing a band to a non-human, other embodiments may include where the band acts as, for example, a bracelet (or larger bands could affix around a patient's thigh while smaller embodiments may affix around a patient's finger). The additional or sub-band may then be used to statically restrain an intravenous (IV) tube and the like. Collectively, the band and its sub-band may help secure a tube or conduit (e.g., IV tube) to a patient's appendage.

Example 6. The method of example 5 comprising forming an additional loop by sliding the additional first protuberance of the additional band of example 2 through the additional slot to affix the additional band to an additional object located within the additional loop

Thus, a loop from the large band may encircle a patient's arm (or leg or waist) while a loop from the sub-band may encircle an IV tube, Foley catheter, and the like.

Example 7. The method of example 6 wherein the additional object includes at least one of an intravenous tube, a catheter, or combinations thereof.

Example 8. The band of example 3 wherein: the additional band couples to the band via a plurality of arms; the plurality of arms couples at least one of the distal or middle thirds of the additional band to at least one of the distal or middle thirds of the band.

For example, see arms 409.

Example 9. The band of example 8 wherein the plurality of arms is monolithic with the band and the additional band.

“Monolithic”, as used herein, means formed or composed as a single piece of material without joints or seams, consisting of or constituting a single unit, constituting an undifferentiated whole. For example, the band may include a thermoplastic formed in a mold, extrusion molded, injection molding, and the like.

Example 10. The band of example 9 wherein: an additional arm couples the proximal third of the additional band to at least one of the proximal or middle thirds of the band; the additional arm has a greater surface area than each of the plurality of arms.

See, e.g., additional arm 410.

Example 11. The band to any of examples 1 or 13 wherein the resilient material includes at least one of a thermoplastic elastomer, silicone, rubber, or combinations thereof.

Example 12. The band of example 11 wherein the resilient material has a Shore A 40 hardness.

Example 12.1 The band of example 11 wherein the resilient material has a Shore A 30 hardness.

Example 12.2 The band of example 11 wherein the resilient material has a Shore A 50 hardness.

Example 13. A band comprising: an overall length defined along a long axis of the band; a proximal third, a distal third, and a middle third between the proximal and distal thirds. The band includes a substantially flat first face opposite a substantially flat second face. The band includes a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first side wall coupling the first and second flat faces to each other and the second side wall also coupling the first and second flat faces to each other. The band includes a distal portion of the first sidewall, the distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall, the distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances. The band includes a proximal portion of the first sidewall, the proximal portion of the first sidewall including no protuberances, and a proximal portion of the second sidewall, the proximal portion of the second sidewall including no protuberances. The band includes a tip of the first protuberance that extends a first distance, orthogonal to the long axis, from the long axis. The proximal portion of the first sidewall extends a second distance, orthogonal the long axis, from the long axis and the first distance is greater than the second distance. The band includes a slot included in the proximal third of the band and including a first width that is orthogonal to the long axis. The band includes a second width extending orthogonal to the long axis and from the tip of the first protuberance to a tip of the fourth protuberance, wherein the second width is wider than the first width. The band includes a third width colinear with the first width and extending from the first side wall to the second sidewall, wherein the third width is wider than the second width. The band includes a resilient material. The first protuberance includes a leading edge that slopes away from the long axis as the leading edge extends proximally. The first protuberance includes a trailing edge that meets the first sidewall via an arcuate edge and slopes away from the long axis as the trailing edge extends distally. The leading edge is longer than the trailing edge. The leading edge has a first angle of incidence with the first sidewall, the trailing edge has a second angle of incidence with the first sidewall, and the first angle of incidence is less than the second angle of incidence. The slot has a width taken along the long axis. The slot has a length taken orthogonal to the long axis, the length of the slot being larger than the width of the slot. The band is monolithic and formed from a single structure with no fusions, welds, or adhesions between different sub-portions of the first band.

Thus, embodiments are not limited to the dimensions addressed in example 1.

Another version of Example 13. A band comprising: an overall length defined along a long axis of the band; a proximal third, a distal third, and a middle third between the proximal and distal thirds. The band includes a substantially flat first face opposite a substantially flat second face. The band includes a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first side wall coupling the first and second flat faces to each other and the second side wall also coupling the first and second flat faces to each other. The band includes a distal portion of the first sidewall, the distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall, the distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances. The band includes a proximal portion of the first sidewall, the proximal portion of the first sidewall including no protuberances, and a proximal portion of the second sidewall, the proximal portion of the second sidewall including no protuberances. The band includes a tip of the first protuberance that extends a first distance, orthogonal to the long axis, from the long axis. The proximal portion of the first sidewall extends a second distance, orthogonal the long axis, from the long axis and the first distance is greater than the second distance. The band includes a slot included in the proximal third of the band and including a first width that is orthogonal to the long axis. The band includes a second width extending orthogonal to the long axis and from the tip of the first protuberance to a tip of the fourth protuberance, wherein the second width is wider than the first width. The band includes a third width colinear with the first width and extending from the first side wall to the second sidewall, wherein the third width is wider than the second width. The band includes a resilient material. The first protuberance includes a leading edge that slopes away from the long axis as the leading edge extends proximally. The first protuberance includes a trailing edge. The slot has a width taken along the long axis. The band is monolithic and formed from a single structure with no fusions, welds, or adhesions between different sub-portions of the first band.

For instance, see FIG. 8.

Example 14. The band of example 13 wherein the second width the second width is wider than the first width by a range of 0.10 to 0.15 inches.

Example 15. The band according to at least one of example 1 or 13 wherein there is no negative space between any portion of the trailing edge and the tip of the first protuberance.

For example, FIG. 7 shows a long axis 411 of the band orthogonal to axis 414.

Protuberance 412 has a “negative space” 413, whereas no such negative space exists in the embodiment of FIG. 4. As a result, the embodiment of FIG. 4 may more easily loosen to prevent tube occlusion once a threshold band expansion force is met and may be more easily removed from molds during manufacturing. However, some embodiments may include such negative spaces.

Example 16. The band of example 15, wherein an axis, which is orthogonal to the long axis, intersects the first sidewall and the tip of the first protuberance without traversing a void between the first sidewall and the tip of the first protuberance.

For example, see axis 415 (FIG. 1A) as compared to axis 414 (FIG. 7).

Example 17. The band according to at least one of examples 1 or 13, wherein tightening the band by simultaneously advancing one of the first, second, and third protuberances and one of the fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances through the slot requires between 1 and 4 pounds of force.

For example, such force measurements may be obtained by affixing an FDX Force Ten (model FDX 50) (by Wagner Instruments) to distal tip 416. Tip 416 may be advanced through slot 417 and then tip 416 is attached to the force gauge. The gauge is then used to pull the tip and thereby tighten the band loop and incrementally advance teeth in pairs through the slot. For example, see first (421), second (422), and third (423) protuberances and one of the fourth (424), fifth (425), and sixth (426) protuberances with pairs (421, 424), (422, 425), (423, 426). While in this example there are other protuberances between the first, second, and third protuberances in other embodiments the protuberances may be consecutive such that no protuberances are between the first and second protuberances or between the second and third protuberances. Further, the first, second, and third protuberances may be located in proximal (430), middle (431), or distal (432) portions of the band.

Example 17.1 The band of example 17, wherein: tightening the band by simultaneously advancing the third and sixths protuberance through the slot takes more force than tightening the band by simultaneously advancing the first and fourth protuberances through the slot. The third protuberance is proximal to the first protuberance when the first face is substantially included in a plane. The sixth protuberance is proximal to the fourth protuberance when the first face is substantially included in the plane.

For example, for a series of consecutive teeth the force grew (from a distal tooth with a larger loop to a more proximal tooth with a smaller loop) as follows (in pounds of force): 1.1, 1.2, 1.2, 1.7, 2.15, 2.25, 3.6, 5.0. The progression may have some aberration but generally increases.

Example 18. The band according to at least one of examples 1, 13, or 17, wherein loosening the band by simultaneously withdrawing one of the first, second, and third protuberances and one of the fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances through the slot requires between 1 and 4.0 pounds of force.

For example, such force measurements may be obtained by affixing an FDX Force Ten (model FDX 50) an inch or so proximal of the slot “within the loop” (whereas during tightening the gauge was attached to the band distal tip). The gauge is then used to pull the band and thereby loosen the band loop and incrementally withdraw teeth in pairs through the slot.

Example 18.1 The band of example 18, wherein: loosening the band by simultaneously withdrawing the third and sixths protuberances through the slots takes more force than loosening the band by simultaneously withdrawing the first and fourth protuberances through the slot. The third protuberance is proximal to the first protuberance when the first face is substantially included in a plane. The sixth protuberance is proximal to the fourth protuberance when the first face is substantially included in the plane.

For example, for a series of consecutive teeth the force grew (from a proximal tooth with a smaller loop to a more distal tooth with a larger loop) as follows (in pounds of force): 3.75, 3.9, 3.25, 2.35, 1.3, 1.15, 1.1. Thus, the progression may have some aberration but generally decreases.

Example 19. The band of example 13, wherein the second width is greater than the first width by a ratio of between 1.0 and 1.4.

Example 19.1 The band of example 2 wherein the additional second width is greater than the additional first width by a ratio of between 1.0 and 1.4.

Example 19.2 The band of example 2 wherein the additional second width is greater than the additional first width by the ratio.

Thus, in FIG. 3 the second band 441 may have the same ratios as band 440. These ratios may exist for other values such as, for example, length to width (406:405), tooth length to width (407:405), tooth length to sidewall width along the slot (407:408), and the like.

Example 20. The band of example 19, wherein the ratio is between 1.1 and 1.2.

Example 21. A band comprising: an overall length defined along a long axis of the band. The band includes a proximal third, a distal third, and a middle third between the proximal and distal thirds. The band includes a substantially flat first face opposite a substantially flat second face. The band includes a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first side wall coupling the first and second flat faces to each other and the second side wall also coupling the first and second flat faces to each other. The band includes a distal portion of the first sidewall, the distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall, the distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances. The band includes a proximal portion of the first sidewall, the proximal portion of the first sidewall including no protuberances, and a proximal portion of the second sidewall, the proximal portion of the second sidewall including no protuberances. The band includes a tip of the first protuberance that extends a first distance, orthogonal to the long axis, from the long axis, wherein the proximal portion of the first sidewall extends a second distance, orthogonal the long axis, from the long axis and the first distance is greater than the second distance. The band includes a slot included in the proximal third of the band and including a first width that is orthogonal to the long axis. The band includes a second width extending orthogonal to the long axis and from the tip of the first protuberance to a tip of the fourth protuberance, wherein the second width is greater than the first width by a ratio of between 1.0 and 1.4. The band includes a resilient material, wherein the resilient material has one of a Shore A 30 hardness, Shore A 40 hardness, or a Shore A 50 hardness. The first protuberance includes a leading edge that slopes away from the long axis as the leading edge extends proximally. The first protuberance includes a trailing edge that meets the first sidewall via an arcuate edge and slopes away from the long axis as the trailing edge extends distally. The leading edge is longer than the trailing edge. The leading edge has a first angle of incidence with the first sidewall, the trailing edge has a second angle of incidence with the first sidewall, and the first angle of incidence is less than the second angle of incidence.

Example 22. A band comprising: a substantially flat first face opposite a substantially flat second face. The band includes a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first and second side walls coupling the first and second flat faces to each other. The band includes a distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances. The band includes a slot including a first width. The band includes a second width, extending from the tip of the first protuberance to a tip of the fourth protuberance, which is greater than the first width by a ratio of between 1.0 and 1.4. The band includes a resilient material that has one of a Shore A 30 hardness, Shore A 40 hardness, or a Shore A 50 hardness. The first protuberance includes a leading edge that slopes away from a long axis of the band as the leading edge extends proximally. The first protuberance includes a trailing edge that meets the first sidewall via an arcuate edge and slopes away from the long axis as the trailing edge extends distally. The leading edge is longer than the trailing edge. The leading edge has a first angle of incidence with the first sidewall, the trailing edge has a second angle of incidence with the first sidewall, and the first angle of incidence is less than the second angle of incidence.

Example 23. A band comprising: a first face opposite a second face. The band includes a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first and second side walls coupling the first and second faces to each other. The band includes a distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances. The band includes an aperture including a first width; a second width, extending from the tip of the first protuberance to a tip of the fourth protuberance, which is greater than the first width by a ratio of between 1.0 and 1.4. The band includes a resilient material that has one of a Shore A 30 hardness, Shore A 40 hardness, or a Shore A 50 hardness. The first protuberance includes a leading edge that slopes away from a long axis of the band as the leading edge extends proximally. The first protuberance includes a trailing edge that meets the first sidewall via an arcuate edge and slopes away from the long axis as the trailing edge extends distally. The leading edge is longer than the trailing edge. The leading edge has a first angle of incidence with the first sidewall, the trailing edge has a second angle of incidence with the first sidewall, and the first angle of incidence is less than the second angle of incidence.

Thus, faces of the band do not necessarily have to be wholly or partially flat. However, in some embodiments (FIG. 6C) the faces are entirely flat. Still, other embodiments may have a circular or ovular cross-section with teeth along one (yes, embodiments include those where teeth are not in pairs but only a single row or series of teeth on a single side of a band exist) or two edges or teeth that circumscribe the body of the band. The slot may circular, ovular, and the like. Sidewalls may be portions of a circular or ovular wall that generally are on a “side” rather than “top” or “bottom” of a band.

Example 24. A band comprising: a first face opposite a second face. The band includes a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first and second side walls coupling the first and second faces to each other. The band includes a distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances. The band includes an aperture including a first width. The band includes a second width, extending from the tip of the first protuberance to a tip of the fourth protuberance, which is greater than the first width. The band includes a resilient material. The first protuberance includes a leading edge that slopes away from a long axis of the band as the leading edge extends proximally. The first protuberance includes a trailing edge that meets the first sidewall via an arcuate edge and slopes away from the long axis as the trailing edge extends distally. The leading edge is longer than the trailing edge. The leading edge has a first angle of incidence with the first sidewall, the trailing edge has a second angle of incidence with the first sidewall, and the first angle of incidence is less than the second angle of incidence. The first width, the second width, and a hardness of the resilient material are configured such that the band automatically loosens by withdrawing the third and sixths protuberance through the slot when expansive forces on the band are between and 1 and 5 pounds.

Example 25. A band comprising: a first face opposite a second face. The band includes a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first and second side walls coupling the first and second faces to each other. The band includes a distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances. The band includes an aperture including a first width. The band includes a second width, extending from the tip of the first protuberance to a tip of the fourth protuberance, which is greater than the first width. The band includes a resilient material. The first protuberance includes a leading edge that slopes away from a long axis of the band as the leading edge extends proximally. The first protuberance includes a trailing edge that meets the first sidewall via an arcuate edge and slopes away from the long axis as the trailing edge extends distally. The leading edge is longer than the trailing edge. The leading edge has a first angle of incidence with the first sidewall, the trailing edge has a second angle of incidence with the first sidewall, and the first angle of incidence is less than the second angle of incidence. The band includes a means for automatically loosening the band by withdrawing the third and sixth protuberances through the slot when expansive forces on the band are between and 1 and 5 pounds.

Example 26. A band comprising: a first face opposite a second face. The band includes a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first and second side walls coupling the first and second faces to each other. The band includes a distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances. The band includes an aperture including a first width. The band includes a second width, extending from the tip of the first protuberance to a tip of the fourth protuberance, which is greater than the first width by a ratio of between 1.0 and 1.4. The band includes a resilient material that has one of a Shore A 30 hardness, Shore A 40 hardness, or a Shore A 50 hardness. The first protuberance includes a shark fin shape.

Example 27. A band comprising: an overall length defined along a long axis of the band. The band includes a proximal third, a distal third, and a middle third between the proximal and distal thirds. The band includes a first face opposite a second face. The band includes a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first side wall coupling the first and second faces to each other and the second side wall also coupling the first and second faces to each other. The band includes a distal portion of the first sidewall, the distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall, the distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances. The band includes a proximal portion of the first sidewall, the proximal portion of the first sidewall including no protuberances, and a proximal portion of the second sidewall, the proximal portion of the second sidewall including no protuberances. The band includes a tip of the first protuberance that extends a first distance, orthogonal to the long axis, from the long axis, wherein the proximal portion of the first sidewall extends a second distance, orthogonal the long axis, from the long axis and the first distance is greater than the second distance. The band includes a slot included in the proximal third of the band and including a first width that is orthogonal to the long axis. The band includes a second width extending orthogonal to the long axis and from the tip of the first protuberance to a tip of the fourth protuberance, wherein the second width is greater than the first width by a ratio of between 1.0 and 1.4. The band includes a resilient material, wherein the resilient material has one of a Shore A 30 hardness, Shore A 40 hardness, or a Shore A 50 hardness. The first protuberance includes a leading edge that slopes away from the long axis as the leading edge extends proximally. The first protuberance includes a trailing edge; (c) the leading edge is longer than the trailing edge. The leading edge has a first angle of incidence with the first sidewall, the trailing edge has a second angle of incidence with the first sidewall, and the first angle of incidence is less than the second angle of incidence.

Thus, in an embodiment the trailing edge does not necessarily have a non-orthogonal angle of incidence or interface a band sidewall with an arcuate edge.

Example 28. A system comprising a band and metal structure. The band includes an overall length defined along a long axis of the band. The band includes a proximal third, a distal third, and a middle third between the proximal and distal thirds. The band includes a first face opposite a second face. The band includes a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first side wall coupling the first and second faces to each other and the second side wall also coupling the first and second faces to each other. The band includes a distal portion of the first sidewall, the distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall, the distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances. The band includes a proximal portion of the first sidewall, the proximal portion of the first sidewall including no protuberances, and a proximal portion of the second sidewall, the proximal portion of the second sidewall including no protuberances. The band includes a tip of the first protuberance that extends a first distance, orthogonal to the long axis, from the long axis, wherein the proximal portion of the first sidewall extends a second distance, orthogonal the long axis, from the long axis and the first distance is greater than the second distance. The band includes a slot included in the proximal third of the band and including a first width that is orthogonal to the long axis. The band includes a second width extending orthogonal to the long axis and from the tip of the first protuberance to a tip of the fourth protuberance, wherein the second width is greater than the first width by a ratio of between 1.0 and 1.4. The band includes a resilient material, wherein the resilient material has one of a Shore A 30 hardness, Shore A 40 hardness, or a Shore A 50 hardness. The first protuberance includes a leading edge that slopes away from the long axis as the leading edge extends proximally. The first protuberance includes a trailing edge. The leading edge is longer than the trailing edge. The leading edge has a first angle of incidence with the first sidewall, the trailing edge has a second angle of incidence with the first sidewall, and the first angle of incidence is less than the second angle of incidence. The band is formed in a loop around the metal structure.

Example 29. A kit including a plurality of any of the bands according to any of examples 1-23, wherein the at least two of the bands are colored different from one another.

For example, a colorX may be used by a nursing staff or functionX (afferent tubing carrying fluid to patient) while colorY is used by the staff for function (efferent tubing carrying tubing away from patient). Instead of or in addition to changing colors, lengths of bands in the kit may vary as well.

Example 30. A band comprising a substantially flat first face opposite a substantially flat second face. The band includes a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first and second side walls coupling the first and second flat faces to each other. The band includes a distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances. The band includes a slot including a first width that is orthogonal to a long axis of the band. The band includes a second width, extending from the tip of the first protuberance to the second sidewall, which is greater than the first width by a ratio not lower than 1.0 and not greater than 1.4. The band includes a resilient material that has hardness not softer than a Shore A 30 hardness and not hard than a Shore A 50 hardness. The first protuberance includes a leading edge that slopes away from a long axis of the band as the leading edge extends proximally and the first protuberance includes a trailing edge. The band is monolithic and formed from a single structure with no fusions, welds, or adhesions between different sub-portions of the first band.

For instance, see FIGS. 4 and/or 8.

FIG. 8 includes dimensions for a band 100′ with a hole having width 401′, length 402′, teeth that protrude from the body by distance 403′, width of body without teeth having width 405′, length 406′. The proximal third extends along the long axis and is proximal to the slot by distance 463′. The slot has a width 401′ taken along the long (long) axis. The slot has a length 402′ (sometimes referred to as a width) taken orthogonal to the long axis. The band is monolithic and formed from a single structure with no fusions, welds, or adhesions between different sub-portions of the first band. First distance 461′ is greater than second distance 462′ with regard to axis 411′.

When Example 30 provides: “The band includes a second width, extending from the tip of the first protuberance to the second sidewall, which is greater than the first width by a ratio not lower than 1.0 and not greater than 1.4.” Such a second width may include distance 418′. For instance, the second width may extend between two opposing protuberances. However, the distance may also extend, orthogonal to the long axis, from one protuberance to a portion of an opposing sidewall that has no protuberance.

Example 31. The band of example 30 comprising an overall length defined along the long axis. The band includes at least 5 apertures located between the slot and a distal tip of the band, the slot being located adjacent a proximal tip of band. The at least 5 apertures extend along a majority of the overall length.

For instance, see FIG. 8. By changing the angle of incidence for the trailing edge of a protuberance from 90 degrees (e.g., FIG. 4) to 135 degrees (e.g., FIG. 8), the embodiment will “self-adjust” more freely to prevent over-tightening and prevent constricting a patient's blood vessels (e.g., when being used to secure an IV to a patient's arm such as in FIG. 9). Additionally, the “lattice structure” helps the band shrink/compress along the long axis of the band to assist with the “self-adjustment′” and prevent over-tightening. Thus, some embodiments may have an angle of instance for the trailing edge of 90 degrees while others may be 135 degrees or some measure in between 150 and 90 degrees.

The foregoing description of the embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. This description and the claims following include terms, such as left, right, top, bottom, over, under, upper, lower, first, second, etc. that are used for descriptive purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting. For example, terms designating relative vertical position refer to a situation where a device side (or active surface) of a substrate or integrated circuit is the “top” surface of that substrate; the substrate may actually be in any orientation so that a “top” side of a substrate may be lower than the “bottom” side in a standard terrestrial frame of reference and still fall within the meaning of the term “top.” The term “on” as used herein (including in the claims) does not indicate that a first layer “on” a second layer is directly on and in immediate contact with the second layer unless such is specifically stated; there may be a third layer or other structure between the first layer and the second layer on the first layer. The embodiments of a device or article described herein can be manufactured, used, or shipped in a number of positions and orientations. Persons skilled in the relevant art can appreciate that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. Persons skilled in the art will recognize various equivalent combinations and substitutions for various components shown in the Figures. It is therefore intended that the scope of the invention be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by the claims appended hereto. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A band comprising: an overall length defined along a long axis of the band; a proximal third, a distal third, and a middle third between the proximal and distal thirds; a substantially flat first face opposite a substantially flat second face; a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first side wall coupling the first and second flat faces to each other and the second side wall also coupling the first and second flat faces to each other; a distal portion of the first sidewall, the distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall, the distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances; a proximal portion of the first sidewall, the proximal portion of the first sidewall including no protuberances, and a proximal portion of the second sidewall, the proximal portion of the second sidewall including no protuberances; a tip of the first protuberance that extends a first distance, orthogonal to the long axis, from the long axis; wherein the proximal portion of the first sidewall extends a second distance, orthogonal the long axis, from the long axis and the first distance is greater than the second distance; a slot included in the proximal third of the band and including a first width that is orthogonal to the long axis; a second width extending orthogonal to the long axis and from the tip of the first protuberance to a tip of the fourth protuberance, wherein the second width is wider than the first width; a third width colinear with the first width and extending from the first side wall to the second sidewall, wherein the third width is wider than the second width; a resilient material; wherein (a) the first protuberance includes a leading edge that slopes away from the long axis as the leading edge extends proximally, (b) the first protuberance includes a trailing edge; (c) the leading edge is longer than the trailing edge; (d) the leading edge has a first angle of incidence with the first sidewall, the trailing edge has a second angle of incidence with the first sidewall, and the first angle of incidence is less than the second angle of incidence; wherein the slot has a length taken along the long axis, the length of the slot being less than the first width; wherein the band is monolithic and formed from a single structure with no fusions, welds, or adhesions between different sub-portions of the first band.
 2. The band of claim 1, wherein the resilient material includes at least one of a thermoplastic elastomer, silicone, rubber, or combinations thereof.
 3. The band of claim 2, wherein the resilient material has a hardness, the hardness being no softer than a Shore A 30 hardness and no harder than a Shore A 50 hardness.
 4. The band claim 3, wherein the second width is greater than the first width by a ratio of between 1.0 and 1.4.
 5. The band of claim 4, wherein: the ratio is between 1.1 and 1.2; the third width is wider than the second width by no less than 0.30 inches and no more than 0.40 inches.
 6. The band of claim 3, wherein the second width is wider than the first width by no less than 0.10 inches and no more than 0.15 inches.
 7. The band of claim 4, wherein there is no negative space between any portion of the trailing edge and the tip of the first protuberance.
 8. The band of claim 4, wherein an axis, which is orthogonal to the long axis, intersects the first sidewall and the tip of the first protuberance without traversing a void between the first sidewall and the tip of the first protuberance.
 9. The band of claim 4 wherein the band is configured, based on at least the hardness of the resilient material and the second width being greater than the first width by a ratio of between 1.0 and 1.4, such that tightening the band by simultaneously advancing one of the first, second, and third protuberances and one of the fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances through the slot requires between 1 and 4 pounds of force.
 10. The band of claim 9, wherein the band is configured such that: tightening the band by simultaneously advancing the third and sixths protuberance through the slot takes more force than tightening the band by simultaneously advancing the first and fourth protuberances through the slot; the third protuberance is proximal to the first protuberance when the first face is substantially included in a plane; the sixth protuberance is proximal to the fourth protuberance when the first face is substantially included in the plane.
 11. The band of claim 9, wherein the band is configured, based on at least the hardness of the resilient material and the second width being greater than the first width by a ratio of between 1.0 and 1.4, such that loosening the band by simultaneously withdrawing one of the first, second, and third protuberances and one of the fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances through the slot requires between 1 and 4.0 pounds of force.
 12. The band of claim 9, wherein the band is configured, based on at least the hardness of the resilient material and the second width being greater than the first width by a ratio of between 1.0 and 1.4, such that: loosening the band by simultaneously withdrawing the third and sixths protuberances through the slots takes more force than loosening the band by simultaneously withdrawing the first and fourth protuberances through the slot; the third protuberance is proximal to the first protuberance when the first face is substantially included in a plane; the sixth protuberance is proximal to the fourth protuberance when the first face is substantially included in the plane.
 13. A band comprising: a substantially flat first face opposite a substantially flat second face; a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first and second side walls coupling the first and second flat faces to each other; a distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances; a slot including a first width that is orthogonal to a long axis of the band; a second width, extending parallel to the first width and from the tip of the first protuberance to the second sidewall, which is greater than the first width by a ratio of the second width to the first width that is not lower than 1.0 and not greater than 1.4; a resilient material that has hardness not softer than a Shore A 30 hardness and not harder than a Shore A 50 hardness; wherein (a) the first protuberance includes a leading edge that slopes away from a long axis of the band as the leading edge extends proximally, and (b) the first protuberance includes a trailing edge; wherein the band is monolithic and formed from a single structure with no fusions, welds, or adhesions between different sub-portions of the first band.
 14. The band of claim 13 wherein the band is configured, based on at least the hardness of the resilient material and the ratio being not lower than 1.0 and not greater than 1.4, such that tightening the band by simultaneously advancing one of the first, second, and third protuberances and one of the fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances through the slot requires between 1 and 4 pounds of force.
 15. The band of claim 14, wherein the band is configured such that: tightening the band by simultaneously advancing the third and sixths protuberance through the slot takes more force than tightening the band by simultaneously advancing the first and fourth protuberances through the slot; the third protuberance is proximal to the first protuberance when the first face is substantially included in a plane; the sixth protuberance is proximal to the fourth protuberance when the first face is substantially included in the plane.
 16. The band of claim 13 comprising: an overall length defined along the long axis; at least 5 apertures that each couple the first face to the second face and that are located between the slot and a distal tip of the band, the slot being located adjacent a proximal tip of band; wherein at least one of the at least 5 apertures is included in a proximal third of the band and at least one of the at least 5 apertures is included in a distal third of the band.
 17. The band of claim 16 comprising a short axis that is orthogonal to the long axis, wherein the short axis intersects at least one of the at least 5 apertures and at least one of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances.
 18. The band of claim 17, wherein: the short axis intersects at least two of the at least 5 apertures; the second width extends from the tip of the first protuberance to a tip of the fourth protuberance.
 19. A band comprising: an overall length defined along a long axis of the band; a first face opposite a second face; a first side wall opposite a second side wall, the first and second side walls coupling the first and second faces to each other; a distal portion of the first sidewall including first, second, and third protuberances, and a distal portion of the second sidewall including fourth, fifth, and sixth protuberances; an aperture including a first width that is orthogonal to the long axis; a second width extending parallel to the first width and from the tip of the first protuberance to the second sidewall; a resilient material; and a means for automatically loosening the band by withdrawing the third and sixth protuberances through the slot when expansive forces on the band are between and 1 and 5 pounds.
 20. The band of claim 19 wherein the means for automatically loosening the band includes: the second width being greater than the first width by a ratio not lower than 1.0 and not greater than 1.4; the resilient material having a hardness not softer than a Shore A 30 hardness and not hard than a Shore A 50 hardness. 